Discrimination in the workplace is a very serious matter and while it has been getting much more attention lately, it is still a problem for many people. As an employee, you have the right to work in a safe place that is free from harassment and discrimination. Furthermore, you also have the right to make a complaint if you are experiencing such behavior. Unfortunately, many managers, even those in Kansas City, retaliate against employees that file complaints about discrimination.

It is not uncommon for some supervisors to think that they are untouchable, but, in reality, there are severe repercussions for those who take retaliatory actions. Managers can suffer job loss to legal consequences for retaliating against employees.

What is retaliation?

In general, workplace retaliation is any negative action that a supervisor or employer might take against an employee. For example, if you filed a claim with Human Resources (HR) about discrimination you have either experienced directly or seen and your manager fires you two days later without cause, then this might be retaliation. In addition, retaliation can take the form of a demotion, harassment or bullying.

Protected acts

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides protections for employees who commit certain acts that might cause a manager to retaliate. For example, if you filed a discrimination charge, complained about workplace discrimination or took part in any kind of discrimination investigation or lawsuit, the EEOC makes it illegal for your manager or employer to retaliate against you. Even if an employee made a false claim about discrimination, he or she still has the right to be free from retaliation.

HR obligations

If you file a discrimination charge against a manager, the HR department of the company you work for has a legal obligation to investigate your claim. Furthermore, HR also has to investigate any acts of retaliation. Unless your employer condones retaliatory or unfair behavior, then it should not be long before the manager receives an invitation to leave the employ of the company.

If you have been a victim of discrimination in the workplace and management has retaliated against you, you might be able to take legal action. By speaking up about discrimination, not only do you take steps to protect your rights but you can help protect your co-workers.